Carabiner with pinching mechanism

ABSTRACT

The present invention extends to a carabiner intended for use as an adjustable anchor. In general, embodiments of the invention include a carabiner that includes a pinching mechanism. More specifically, some embodiments of the invention include a carabiner having a pinching mechanism that includes one of a slidable pin, a rotatable cam, or a pivotable block. Additionally, some embodiments of the invention include a rope, whereas other embodiments can be used with a rope supplied by a climber.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 15/993,547, entitled “CARABINER WITH PINCHINGMECHANISM,” filed May 30, 2018 by Mark William LeBeau, which claims thebenefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.No. 62/512,253, entitled “LOCKING CARABINER WITH SLIDABLE PIN,” filedMay 30, 2017 by Mark William LeBeau, the entire contents of theforegoing applications are hereby expressly incorporated by reference intheir entirety.

BACKGROUND 1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to the field of climbing and, more particularly,it relates to a carabiner having a pinching mechanism to provide anadjustable anchor for a climber.

2. Background and Relevant Art

A carabiner is a specialized type of shackle usually made from a metal,such as steel or aluminum. In general, a carabiner includes a frame anda gate that selectively opens and closes to form a complete loop. Moreparticularly, the gate is typically pivotally connected to one end ofthe frame and selectively engages a nose at another end of the frame toform the loop. Additionally, the gate is usually spring-loaded, biasedtoward closing the loop. In some cases, a gate may include an optionallocking sleeve which locks the gate in the closed position to secure thecomplete loop. Typically, the frame of a carabiner further includes aspine that connects to both a basket of the frame and a crotch of theframe that is opposite the basket. Oftentimes rope, cord, or webbing isthreaded through either the basket or the crotch or both. Moreover, acarabiner can take a variety of shapes, such as oval shaped, regularD-shaped, asymmetrical D-shaped, and pear shaped.

Thus, in light of their specific shape and components, carabiners arewidely used in rope-intensive activities such as climbing,arboriculture, caving, sailing, hot air ballooning, rope rescue,construction, industrial rope work, window cleaning, whitewater rescue,and acrobatics. Oftentimes, such rope-intensive activities require aclimber to anchor to various support surfaces. This typically involves aclimber connecting a climbing harness to an anchor secured to a supportsurface. For example, it is frequently the case that a rock climberconnects their harness to a climbing surface by forming an anchor usingmultiple devices, such as a carabiner and a sling or a piece of rope. Insome cases, a climber may form an anchor that includes two carabinersand a daisy chain.

Accordingly, one problem with conventional carabiners is that multipleother devices, such as additional carabiners, rope, slings, or daisychains are needed to form a safe anchor to a support surface.Consequently, this requires climbers to carry more equipment than may beideal.

Additionally, another problem with conventional carabiners is thatanchors formed using such carabiners are not easily and finelyadjustable. For example, the length of the anchor formed using twocarabiners and a daisy chain can only be adjusted in increments thatcorrespond to the size of the loops in the daisy chain. In other words,anchors formed from conventional carabiners are typically not infinitelyadjustable.

In view of problems such as those noted above, and others, it would beuseful to provide an integrated carabiner that can be used as an anchorwithout the necessity for additional multiple devices. Moreover, itwould be useful to provide a carabiner that can serve as a more easilyand finely adjustable anchor. Therefore, conventional carabiners havevarious limitations that are desirable to overcome.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present invention extends to a carabiner having a pinchingmechanism. In one aspect, a carabiner includes a frame, a gate, apinching mechanism, and a rope. The gate is connected to the frame andmovable between a closed position and an open position. The pinchingmechanism is integrated into the frame forming a channel between theframe and the pinching mechanism. Moreover, the pinching mechanism ismovable between a pinched position and an unpinched position.Furthermore, the rope passes through the channel. The rope is alsoconfigured to be pinched between the frame and the pinching mechanismwhen in the pinched position and unpinched between the frame and thepinching mechanism when in the unpinched position.

In another aspect, a carabiner includes a frame, a gate, a pinchingmechanism that includes a pin slidably mounted within the frame, and arope. The pinching mechanism is integrated into the frame forming achannel. The channel can include a first channel opening configured toreceive a first portion of rope and a second channel opening configuredto receive a second portion of rope. Moreover, the frame can include acrotch having a front side with a front groove and a rear side with arear groove, the rear side opposite the front side. Furthermore, the pinslidably mounted within the frame can include a front button slidablymounted within the front groove, a rear button slidably mounted withinthe rear groove, and a stem connected to the front and rear buttons.Thus, the channel can be more specifically formed by the space betweenthe crotch of the frame and the stem of the pin slidably mounted withinthe frame. Additionally, the crotch of the frame can further include aprotrusion positioned proximate the channel. Accordingly, the stem canmove toward the pinched position when force is applied to the rope in adirection that forces the stem toward the protrusion and it can movetoward the unpinched position when force is applied to the rope in adirection that forces the stem away from the protrusion.

In a further aspect, a carabiner includes a frame, a gate, a pinchingmechanism that includes a shaft and a cam rotationally connected to theshaft, and a rope. The pinching mechanism is integrated into the frameforming a channel. The channel can include a first channel openingconfigured to receive a first portion of rope and a second channelopening configured to receive a second portion of rope. Moreover, theframe can include a crotch having a front side with a front groove and arear side with a rear groove, the rear side opposite the front side.Furthermore, the cam rotationally connected to the shaft can include afront guide rod slidably mounted within the front groove, a rear guiderod slidably mounted within the rear groove, and a stem connected to thefront guide rod and the rear guide rod. Therefore, the channel can bemore specifically formed by the space between the crotch of the frameand the stem of the cam rotationally connected to the shaft.Additionally, the crotch of the frame can further include a protrusionpositioned proximate the channel. Also, the pinching mechanism caninclude a spring that biases the cam toward the unpinched position.Nevertheless, when force is applied to the rope in a direction thatforces the stem toward the protrusion, the stem can move toward thepinched position, and when force is applied to the rope in a directionthat forces the stem away from the protrusion, the stem can move towardthe unpinched position.

In an even further aspect, a carabiner includes a frame, a gate, apinching mechanism that includes a pivot and a block pivotally connectedto the pivot, and a rope. The pinching mechanism is integrated into theframe forming a channel. The channel can include a first channel openingconfigured to receive a first portion of rope and a second channelopening configured to receive a second portion of rope. Moreover, theframe can include a crotch having a frame surface and the pivot can bepositioned on the crotch. The block can also include a stem having aconcave perimeter surface. Thus, the channel can be more particularlyformed by the frame surface of the crotch and at least a portion of theconcave perimeter surface of the stem of the block. Furthermore, thecrotch of the frame can include a protrusion positioned on the framesurface of the crotch proximate the channel. Consequently, the stem canmove toward the pinched position when force is applied to the rope in adirection that forces the stem toward the protrusion and the stem canmove toward the unpinched position when force is applied to the rope ina direction that forces the stem away from the protrusion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to describe the manner in which the aspects and features of theinvention can be obtained, a more particular description of theinvention briefly described above will be rendered by reference tospecific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appendeddrawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typicalembodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered tobe limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explainedwith additional specificity and detail through the use of theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example carabiner in accordance with a firstembodiment;

FIG. 2A illustrates a top, front, left side perspective view of anexample carabiner in accordance with the first embodiment;

FIG. 2B illustrates a bottom, rear, right side perspective view of theexample carabiner of FIG. 2A in accordance with the first embodiment;

FIG. 2C illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 2A with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched position in accordancewith the first embodiment;

FIG. 2D illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 2A with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordancewith the first embodiment;

FIG. 2E illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner of FIG. 2A with a pinching mechanism in an unpinchedposition in accordance with the first embodiment;

FIG. 2F illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 2A with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordancewith the first embodiment;

FIG. 3A illustrates a top, front, left side perspective view of anexample carabiner in accordance with a second embodiment;

FIG. 3B illustrates a bottom, rear, right side perspective view of theexample carabiner of FIG. 3A in accordance with the second embodiment;

FIG. 3C illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 3A with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched position in accordancewith the second embodiment;

FIG. 3D illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 3A with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordancewith the second embodiment;

FIG. 3E illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner of FIG. 3A with a pinching mechanism in an unpinchedposition in accordance with the second embodiment;

FIG. 3F illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 3A with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordancewith the second embodiment;

FIG. 4A illustrates a top, front, left side perspective view of anexample carabiner in accordance with a third embodiment;

FIG. 4B illustrates a bottom, rear, right side perspective view of theexample carabiner of FIG. 4A in accordance with the third embodiment;

FIG. 4C illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 4A with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched position in accordancewith the third embodiment;

FIG. 4D illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 4A with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordancewith the third embodiment;

FIG. 4E illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner of FIG. 4A with a pinching mechanism in an unpinchedposition in accordance with the third embodiment;

FIG. 4F illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner ofFIG. 4A with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordancewith the third embodiment; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a sample use of the example carabiner of FIG. 1 inaccordance with the first embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention extends to a carabiner. In one aspect, thecarabiner is used to anchor to a support surface. More specifically, thecarabiner can secure a climber by connecting the climber, such as ontheir harness, to the support surface, such as on a bolt permanentlysecured to a rock wall. In another aspect, the carabiner is anintegrated, single, standalone device that can be used to anchor to thesupport surface, thereby reducing the amount of equipment the climberneeds to carry. In yet another aspect, the carabiner provides an anchorthat is easily and finely adjustable in length or distance between theclimber and the support surface.

In one embodiment of the invention, a carabiner includes a frame, agate, a pinching mechanism, and a rope.

The frame of the carabiner can further include a nose, a basket, aspine, a crotch, and a gate pivot head. The nose mates with the gate ina closed position. The basket is adjacent to the nose and the spine. Thebasket is also substantially perpendicular to the gate in the closedposition. The spine is adjacent to the basket and opposite the gate inthe closed position. The crotch is adjacent to the spine and oppositethe basket. The gate pivot head protrudes from the crotch to pivotallyconnect to the gate using a gate pivot rod.

The gate is pivotally connected to the frame and movable between aclosed position and an open position. Accordingly, the gate isconfigured to be either open or closed. Thus, when open, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to hook or otherwiseconnect the carabiner to a support surface. When closed, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to provide a secure,continuous loop that can be used to anchor a climber. The gate canfurther include a locking sleeve.

The pinching mechanism is integrated into the frame forming a channelbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism. The pinching mechanism isalso movable between a pinched position and an unpinched position. Thepinching mechanism can also further include a spring that biases thepinching mechanism toward the unpinched position.

The pinching mechanism is configured to restrict movement of a portionof the rope by pinching the portion of the rope against the frame. Thus,when the pinching mechanism is in the pinched position, the carabinercan be used as a fixed anchor for a climber when the carabiner isconnected to a support surface and the rope is connected to the climber.Also, the pinching mechanism can be configured to allow the freemovement of a portion of the rope by unpinching the portion of the ropeaway from the frame, thereby allowing the rope to travel freely throughthe channel formed by the frame and the pinching mechanism. Thus, whenthe pinching mechanism is in the unpinched position, the carabiner canbe used as an adjustable anchor for a climber when the length of therope connected between the carabiner and the climber is adjusted by theclimber as desired by pulling the rope through the channel to shorten orlengthen the portion of rope connected between the carabiner and theclimber.

The pinching mechanism can include one of a slidable pin, a rotatablecam, a pivotable block, or other equivalents. As for the pinchingmechanism, Applicant intends to encompass any structure presentlyexisting or developed in the future that performs the same or similarfunction as the pinching mechanisms described herein. Moreover, thepinching mechanism can be integrated into the frame at a crotch of theframe. Furthermore, the frame can further include a frame surfacepositioned proximate the channel. The pinching mechanism can furtherinclude a stem movable toward the frame surface to pinch the ropeagainst the frame surface when in the pinched position and movable awayfrom the frame surface to unpinch the rope when in the unpinchedposition. The frame surface can also further include a protrusion.Additionally, the pinching mechanism can move toward the pinchedposition when force is applied to the rope in a direction that forcesthe rope against a surface of the pinching mechanism. Also, the pinchingmechanism can move toward the unpinched position when force is appliedto the rope in a direction that forces the rope away from the surface ofthe pinching mechanism.

The rope passes through the channel and is configured to move freelythrough the channel. Furthermore, the rope is configured to be pinchedbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism when in the pinchedposition and unpinched between the frame and the pinching mechanism whenin the unpinched position. The rope can further include a first portionhaving a loop that prevents the loop from traveling completely throughthe channel by way of a first channel opening and a second portionhaving an end that prevents the end from traveling completely throughthe channel by way of a second channel opening.

In another embodiment of the invention, a carabiner includes a frame, agate, a pinching mechanism including a pin slidably mounted within theframe, and a rope.

The frame can further include a crotch. The crotch can further include afront side, a rear side opposite the front side, a front groove on thefront side, and a rear groove on the rear side. The crotch can alsofurther include a protrusion positioned proximate a channel formedbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism.

The gate is pivotally connected to the frame and movable between aclosed position and an open position. Accordingly, the gate isconfigured to be either open or closed. Thus, when open, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to hook or otherwiseconnect the carabiner to a support surface. When closed, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to provide a secure,continuous loop that can be used to anchor a climber. The gate canfurther include a locking sleeve.

The pinching mechanism is integrated into the frame forming a channelbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism. The pinching mechanism isalso movable between a pinched position and an unpinched position. Thepinching mechanism can also further include a spring that biases the pintoward the unpinched position.

The pinching mechanism is configured to restrict movement of a portionof the rope by pinching the portion of the rope against the frame. Thus,when the pinching mechanism is in the pinched position, the carabinercan be used as a fixed anchor for a climber when the carabiner isconnected to a support surface and the rope is connected to the climber.Also, the pinching mechanism can be configured to allow the freemovement of a portion of the rope by unpinching the portion of the ropeaway from the frame, thereby allowing the rope to travel freely throughthe channel formed by the frame and the pinching mechanism. Thus, whenthe pinching mechanism is in the unpinched position, the carabiner canbe used as an adjustable anchor for a climber when the length of therope connected between the carabiner and the climber is adjusted by theclimber as desired by pulling the rope through the channel to shorten orlengthen the portion of rope connected between the carabiner and theclimber.

The pin slidably mounted within the frame can further include a frontbutton slidably mounted within the front groove of the front side of thecrotch of the frame, a rear button slidably mounted within the reargroove of the rear side of the crotch of the frame, and a stem connectedto the front button and the rear button. Moreover, the stem can beconfigured to move toward the pinched position when force is applied tothe rope in a direction that forces the stem toward a protrusionpositioned proximate the channel. Additionally, the stem can beconfigured to move toward the unpinched position when force is appliedto the rope in a direction that forces the stem away from a protrusionpositioned proximate the channel.

The rope passes through the channel and is configured to move freelythrough the channel. Furthermore, the rope is configured to be pinchedbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism when in the pinchedposition and unpinched between the frame and the pinching mechanism whenin the unpinched position.

The channel can include a first channel opening configured to receive afirst portion of the rope and a second channel opening configured toreceive a second portion of the rope. The channel can also be formed bythe crotch of the frame and the stem of the pin slidably mounted withinthe frame.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a carabiner includes aframe, a gate, a pinching mechanism including a shaft and a camrotationally connected to the shaft, and a rope.

The frame can further include a crotch. The crotch can further include afront side, a rear side opposite the front side, a front groove on thefront side, and a rear groove on the rear side. The crotch can alsofurther include a protrusion positioned proximate a channel formedbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism.

The gate is pivotally connected to the frame and movable between aclosed position and an open position. Accordingly, the gate isconfigured to be either open or closed. Thus, when open, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to hook or otherwiseconnect the carabiner to a support surface. When closed, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to provide a secure,continuous loop that can be used to anchor a climber. The gate canfurther include a locking sleeve.

The pinching mechanism is integrated into the frame forming a channelbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism. The pinching mechanism isalso movable between a pinched position and an unpinched position. Thepinching mechanism can also further include a spring that biases the camtoward the unpinched position.

The pinching mechanism is configured to restrict movement of a portionof the rope by pinching the portion of the rope against the frame. Thus,when the pinching mechanism is in the pinched position, the carabinercan be used as a fixed anchor for a climber when the carabiner isconnected to a support surface and the rope is connected to the climber.Also, the pinching mechanism can be configured to allow the freemovement of a portion of the rope by unpinching the portion of the ropeaway from the frame, thereby allowing the rope to travel freely throughthe channel formed by the frame and the pinching mechanism. Thus, whenthe pinching mechanism is in the unpinched position, the carabiner canbe used as an adjustable anchor for a climber when the length of therope connected between the carabiner and the climber is adjusted by theclimber as desired by pulling the rope through the channel to shorten orlengthen the portion of rope connected between the carabiner and theclimber.

The cam rotationally connected to the shaft can further include a frontguide rod slidably mounted within the front groove of the front side ofthe crotch of the frame, a rear guide rod slidably mounted within therear groove of the rear side of the crotch of the frame, and a stemconnected to the front guide rod and the rear guide rod. Moreover, thestem can be configured to move toward the pinched position when force isapplied to the rope in a direction that forces the stem toward aprotrusion positioned proximate the channel. Additionally, the stem canbe configured to move toward the unpinched position when force isapplied to the rope in a direction that forces the stem away from aprotrusion positioned proximate the channel.

The rope passes through the channel and is configured to move freelythrough the channel. Furthermore, the rope is configured to be pinchedbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism when in the pinchedposition and unpinched between the frame and the pinching mechanism whenin the unpinched position.

The channel can include a first channel opening configured to receive afirst portion of the rope and a second channel opening configured toreceive a second portion of the rope. The channel can also be formed bythe crotch of the frame and the stem of the cam rotationally connectedto the shaft.

In an additional embodiment of the invention, a carabiner includes aframe, a gate, a pinching mechanism including a pivot and a blockpivotally connected to the pivot, and a rope.

The frame can further include a crotch having a frame surface. Thecrotch can further include a protrusion positioned on the frame surfaceof the crotch proximate a channel formed between the frame and thepinching mechanism.

The gate is pivotally connected to the frame and movable between aclosed position and an open position. Accordingly, the gate isconfigured to be either open or closed. Thus, when open, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to hook or otherwiseconnect the carabiner to a support surface. When closed, the gate, inconjunction with the frame, can be configured to provide a secure,continuous loop that can be used to anchor a climber. The gate canfurther include a locking sleeve.

The pinching mechanism is integrated into the frame forming a channelbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism. The pinching mechanism isalso movable between a pinched position and an unpinched position. Thepinching mechanism can also further include a spring that biases theblock toward the unpinched position.

The pinching mechanism is configured to restrict movement of a portionof the rope by pinching the portion of the rope against the frame. Thus,when the pinching mechanism is in the pinched position, the carabinercan be used as a fixed anchor for a climber when the carabiner isconnected to a support surface and the rope is connected to the climber.Also, the pinching mechanism can be configured to allow the freemovement of a portion of the rope by unpinching the portion of the ropeaway from the frame, thereby allowing the rope to travel freely throughthe channel formed by the frame and the pinching mechanism. Thus, whenthe pinching mechanism is in the unpinched position, the carabiner canbe used as an adjustable anchor for a climber when the length of therope connected between the carabiner and the climber is adjusted by theclimber as desired by pulling the rope through the channel to shorten orlengthen the portion of rope connected between the carabiner and theclimber.

The pivot can be positioned on the crotch of the frame.

The block pivotally connected to the pivot can further include a stemhaving a concave perimeter surface. Moreover, the stem can be configuredto move toward the pinched position when force is applied to the rope ina direction that forces the stem toward a protrusion positioned on aframe surface of a crotch of the frame proximate the channel.Additionally, the stem can be configured to move toward the unpinchedposition when force is applied to the rope in a direction that forcesthe stem away from a protrusion positioned on a frame surface of acrotch of the frame proximate the channel.

The rope passes through the channel and is configured to move freelythrough the channel. Furthermore, the rope is configured to be pinchedbetween the frame and the pinching mechanism when in the pinchedposition and unpinched between the frame and the pinching mechanism whenin the unpinched position.

The channel can include a first channel opening configured to receive afirst portion of the rope and a second channel opening configured toreceive a second portion of the rope. The channel can also be formed bythe frame surface of the crotch of the frame and at least a portion ofthe concave perimeter surface of the stem of the block pivotallyconnected to the pivot.

With respect to FIGS. 1-5, various configurations and aspects of variousembodiments of the present invention are depicted.

Turning to FIG. 1, an example carabiner 100 is depicted in accordancewith a first embodiment. The carabiner 100 includes a gate 110, a frame120, a pinching mechanism 130, and a rope 140. In FIG. 1, gate 110 ispivotally connected to frame 120 at gate pivot head 127 using gate pivotrod 114. Gate 110 further includes a locking sleeve 112. In FIG. 1, gate110 is shown in an open position which enables the carabiner to behooked or attached to a support surface, such as a permanent bolt on arock wall. However, gate 110 can pivot to a closed position whichcreates a continuous loop formed by gate 110 and frame 120.

FIG. 1 further illustrates frame 120 includes a basket 122, a spine 124,a crotch 126, a gate pivot head 127, a nose 128, and a protrusion 129.Basket 122 is adjacent to spine 124 and nose 128. Spine 124 is adjacentto basket 122 and crotch 126. Crotch 126 is adjacent to gate pivot head127 which protrudes to create a hinge with gate 110. Nose 128 engages ormates with the gate 110 when in the closed position. Additionally,locking sleeve 112 screws over nose 128 and an end of gate 110 to securethe gate 110 in the closed position. Protrusion 129 is proximatepinching mechanism 130 and provides a surface against which pinchingmechanism 130 can selectively pinch rope 140. The position of protrusion129 generally indicates the position at which rope 140 is pinched bypinching mechanism 130 when in a pinched position. However, in one ormore embodiments of the invention, the pinching mechanism 130 pinchesthe rope 140 against a surface of frame 120 rather than against aprotrusion 129. Thus, it should be appreciated that protrusion 129 isoptional to the functionality of pinching mechanism 130.

FIG. 1 also illustrates pinching mechanism 130 is integrated into frame120 proximate crotch 126. However, in other embodiments of theinvention, pinching mechanism 130 can be integrated into frame 120proximate other portions of frame 120, such as basket 122 and spine 124.Additionally, in other embodiments of the invention, pinching mechanism130 can further include a spring that biases the pinching mechanism 130toward an unpinched position, such that the bias can be overcome whenthe rope 140 is weighted by a climber to engage the pinching mechanism130 into a pinched position.

FIG. 1 further illustrates rope 140 includes a first portion 141 havingan end 142 and a second portion 143 having an end 144. As shown, end 142is a loop and end 144 is an enlarged portion formed by doubling the rope140 back on itself. The thickness of end 142 and end 144 prevent therope 140 from passing entirely through and falling out of the carabiner.Thus, end 142 can be attached to a climber by forming a girth hitchusing the loop of end 142 and a portion of first portion 141, such as byforming the girth hitch on the belay loop of the climber's climbingharness. However, in other embodiments of the invention, end 142 and end144 can take other forms, such as a loop, like end 142, an enlargedportion formed by doubling the rope back on itself, like end 144, aknot, or an unmodified free end of rope that is the same thickness asthe rest of rope 140. In general, rope 140 can be any length. However, alength of between two feet and six feet is desirable and, morespecifically, in most cases a length of about three feet is ideal.Moreover, while FIG. 1 shows rope 140 as a line having two ends, inother embodiments of the invention, rope 140 can be a continuous loop ofrope lacking any ends. In such other embodiments, rope 140 can furtherinclude another loop within the continuous loop of rope which can beused to connect to a climbing harness.

FIG. 1 also illustrates rope 140 can freely travel through the carabiner100 between frame 120 and pinching mechanism 130 when in the unpinchedposition. Accordingly, the length of the first portion 141 of rope 140can be adjusted by selecting a different pinch point along the length ofrope 140. For example, the length of first portion 141 can be elongatedby pulling first portion 141, thereby shortening second portion 143.Conversely, the length of first portion 141 can be shortened by pullingsecond portion 143, thereby elongating second portion 143. Once thedesired length of first portion 141 is selected, pinching mechanism 130can be engaged to pinch the rope 140 in a fixed position such that thecarabiner can be used as an anchor for a climber.

Turning to FIGS. 2A-2F, an example carabiner 200 is depicted inaccordance with the first embodiment. In particular, FIG. 2A illustratesa top, front, left side perspective view of the example carabiner 200 inaccordance with the first embodiment. The carabiner 200 includes acrotch 226 having a front side 226 a, a protrusion 229, a pinchingmechanism 230, and a rope 240. Pinching mechanism 230 further includes afront button 232 a positioned within a front groove 234 a on the frontside 226 a of crotch 226.

FIG. 2B illustrates a bottom, rear, right side perspective view of theexample carabiner 200 in accordance with the first embodiment. Thecarabiner 200 includes a crotch 226 having a rear side 226 b, aprotrusion 229, a pinching mechanism 230, and a rope 240. Pinchingmechanism 230 further includes a rear button 232 b positioned within arear groove 234 b on the rear side 226 b of crotch 226. Pinchingmechanism 230 also includes a stem 233 connected to both front button232 a and rear button 232 b. Accordingly, a slidable pin is defined bystem 233 connected to front button 232 a on one end and rear button 232b on another end. The slidable pin slides within the grooves provided byfront groove 234 a and rear groove 234 b. Additionally, in otherembodiments of the invention, pinching mechanism 230 can further includea spring that biases the slidable pin toward an unpinched position, suchthat the bias can be overcome when the rope 240 is weighted by a climberto engage the slidable pin into a pinched position.

Moreover, between crotch 226 and stem 233 of pinching mechanism 230, achannel is formed having a first channel opening 236 a and a secondchannel opening 236 b, each of which are configured to receive rope 240.Furthermore, FIG. 2B shows rope 240 includes a first portion 241 thatenters first channel opening 236 a and a second portion 243 that enterssecond channel opening 236 b. Thus, rope 240 is configured to enterfirst channel opening 236 a, wrap around stem 233 through the channelformed between an interior surface of crotch 226 and stem 233, and thenexit second channel opening 236 b.

FIG. 2C illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner200 with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched position in accordancewith the first embodiment. The carabiner 200 includes a gate pivotallyconnected to a frame by a gate pivot rod 214. The gate of carabiner 200is configured to be movable between a closed position 250 a and an openposition 250 b. The carabiner 200 further includes a pinching mechanism230 having a slidable pin configured to be movable to an unpinchedposition 260 a. In the unpinched position 260 a, the slidable pin ofpinching mechanism 230 is movable away from protrusion 229, therebyunpinching rope 240 between the slidable pin and the protrusion 229, andallowing rope 240 to move freely around the slidable pin.

FIG. 2D illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner200 with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordance withthe first embodiment. The carabiner 200 includes a gate pivotallyconnected to a frame by a gate pivot rod 214. The gate of carabiner 200is configured to be movable between a closed position 250 a and an openposition 250 b. The carabiner 200 further includes a pinching mechanism230 having a slidable pin configured to be movable to a pinched position260 b. In the pinched position 260 b, the slidable pin of pinchingmechanism 230 is movable toward protrusion 229, thereby pinching rope240 between the slidable pin and the protrusion 229, and preventing rope240 from moving freely around the slidable pin. However, in one or moreembodiments of the invention, the pinching mechanism 230 pinches therope 240 against a surface of the frame of carabiner 200 rather thanagainst a protrusion 229. Thus, it should be appreciated that protrusion229 is optional to the functionality of pinching mechanism 230.

FIG. 2E illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner 200 with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched positionin accordance with the first embodiment. The carabiner 200 includes aframe surface 225. Carabiner 200 further includes protrusion 229proximate frame surface 225. Frame surface 225 and stem 233 of theslidable pin of the pinching mechanism form channel 236. Accordingly,rope 240 passes through channel 236 with a first portion 241 of rope 240entering channel 236 at first channel opening 236 a, the rope 240further traveling through the channel 236 around stem 233 and pastprotrusion 229 until a second portion 243 of rope 240 exits channel 236at second channel opening 236 b. As FIG. 2E illustrates, rope 240 isunpinched by the pinching mechanism since there is space between theportion of the rope 240 proximate the protrusion 229 and the stem 233.Moreover, when a force is applied to rope 240 that forces the stem 233such that it slides toward the unpinched position, then rope 240 becomesunpinched as between protrusion 229 and stem 233.

FIG. 2F illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner 200 with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position inaccordance with the first embodiment. The carabiner 200 includes framesurface 225. Carabiner 200 further includes protrusion 229 proximateframe surface 225. Frame surface 225 and stem 233 of the slidable pin ofthe pinching mechanism form channel 236. Accordingly, rope 240 passesthrough channel 236 with a first portion 241 of rope 240 enteringchannel 236 at first channel opening 236 a, the rope 240 furthertraveling through the channel 236 around stem 233 and past protrusion229 until a second portion 243 of rope 240 exits channel 236 at secondchannel opening 236 b. As FIG. 2F illustrates, rope 240 is pinched bythe pinching mechanism as protrusion 229 and stem 233 compress rope 240when stem 233 slides toward the pinched position. Moreover, when a forceis applied to rope 240 that forces the stem 233 such that it slidestoward the pinched position, then rope 240 becomes pinched betweenprotrusion 229 and stem 233.

Turning to FIGS. 3A-3F, an example carabiner 300 is depicted inaccordance with a second embodiment. In particular, FIG. 3A illustratesa top, front, left side perspective view of the example carabiner 300 inaccordance with the second embodiment. The carabiner 300 includes acrotch 326 having a front side 326 a, a protrusion 329, a pinchingmechanism 330, and a rope 340. Pinching mechanism 330 includes a shaft331 and a front guide rod 335 a positioned within a front groove 337 aon the front side 326 a of crotch 326.

FIG. 3B illustrates a bottom, rear, right side perspective view of theexample carabiner 300 in accordance with the second embodiment. Thecarabiner 300 includes a crotch 326 having a rear side 326 b, aprotrusion 329, a pinching mechanism 330, and a rope 340. Pinchingmechanism 330 further includes shaft 331 and a rear guide rod 335 bpositioned within a rear groove 337 b on the rear side 326 b of crotch326. Pinching mechanism 330 also includes a stem 333 connected to bothfront guide rod 335 a and rear guide rod 335 b. Accordingly, a rotatablecam is defined by stem 333 connected to front guide rod 335 a on one endand rear guide rod 335 b on another end. The rotatable cam rotatesaround shaft 331 as front guide rod 335 a slides within front groove 337a and rear guide rod 335 b slides within rear groove 337 b.Additionally, in other embodiments of the invention, pinching mechanism330 can further include a spring that biases the rotatable cam toward anunpinched position, such that the bias can be overcome when the rope 340is weighted by a climber to engage the rotatable cam into a pinchedposition.

Moreover, between crotch 326 and stem 333 of pinching mechanism 330, achannel is formed having a first channel opening 336 a and a secondchannel opening 336 b, each of which are configured to receive rope 340.Furthermore, FIG. 3B shows rope 340 includes a first portion 341 thatenters first channel opening 336 a and a second portion 343 that enterssecond channel opening 336 b. Thus, rope 340 is configured to enterfirst channel opening 336 a, wrap around stem 333 through the channelformed between an interior surface of crotch 326 and stem 333, and thenexit second channel opening 336 b.

FIG. 3C illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner300 with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched position in accordancewith the second embodiment. The carabiner 300 includes a gate pivotallyconnected to a frame by a gate pivot rod 314. The gate of carabiner 300is configured to be movable between a closed position 350 a and an openposition 350 b. The carabiner 300 further includes a pinching mechanism330 having a rotatable cam configured to be movable to an unpinchedposition 360 a. In the unpinched position 360 a, the rotatable cam ofpinching mechanism 330 is movable away from protrusion 329, therebyunpinching rope 340 between the rotatable cam and protrusion 329, andallowing rope 340 to move freely around the rotatable cam.

FIG. 3D illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner300 with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordance withthe second embodiment. The carabiner 300 includes a gate pivotallyconnected to a frame by a gate pivot rod 314. The gate of carabiner 300is configured to be movable between a closed position 350 a and an openposition 350 b. The carabiner 300 further includes a pinching mechanism330 having a rotatable cam configured to be movable to a pinchedposition 360 b. In the pinched position 360 b, the rotatable cam ofpinching mechanism 330 is movable toward protrusion 329, therebypinching rope 340 between the rotatable cam and protrusion 329, andpreventing rope 340 from moving freely around the rotatable cam.However, in one or more embodiments of the invention, the pinchingmechanism 330 pinches the rope 340 against a surface of the frame ofcarabiner 300 rather than against a protrusion 329. Thus, it should beappreciated that protrusion 329 is optional to the functionality ofpinching mechanism 330.

FIG. 3E illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner 300 with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched positionin accordance with the second embodiment. The carabiner 300 includes aframe surface 325. Carabiner 300 further includes protrusion 329proximate frame surface 325. Frame surface 325 and stem 333 of therotatable cam of the pinching mechanism form channel 336. Accordingly,rope 340 passes through channel 336 with a first portion 341 of rope 340entering channel 336 at first channel opening 336 a, the rope 340further traveling through the channel 336 around stem 333 and pastprotrusion 329 until a second portion 343 of rope 340 exits channel 336at second channel opening 336 b. As FIG. 3E illustrates, rope 340 isunpinched by the pinching mechanism since there is space between theportion of the rope 340 proximate the protrusion 329 and the stem 333.Moreover, when a force is applied to rope 340 that forces the stem 333such that it rotates toward the unpinched position, then rope 340becomes unpinched as between protrusion 329 and stem 333.

FIG. 3F illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner 300 with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position inaccordance with the second embodiment. The carabiner 300 includes framesurface 325. Carabiner 300 further includes protrusion 329 proximateframe surface 325. Frame surface 325 and stem 333 of the rotatable camof the pinching mechanism form channel 336. Accordingly, rope 340 passesthrough channel 336 with a first portion 341 of rope 340 enteringchannel 336 at first channel opening 336 a, the rope 340 furthertraveling through the channel 336 around stem 333 and past protrusion329 until a second portion 343 of rope 340 exits channel 336 at secondchannel opening 336 b. As FIG. 3F illustrates, rope 340 is pinched bythe pinching mechanism as protrusion 329 and stem 333 compress rope 340when stem 333 rotates toward the pinched position. Moreover, when aforce is applied to rope 340 that forces the stem 233 such that itrotates toward the pinched position, then rope 340 becomes pinchedbetween protrusion 329 and stem 333.

Turning to FIGS. 4A-4F, an example carabiner 400 is depicted inaccordance with a third embodiment. In particular, FIG. 4A illustrates atop, front, left side perspective view of the example carabiner 400 inaccordance with the third embodiment. The carabiner 400 includes acrotch 426, a protrusion 429, a pinching mechanism 430, and a rope 440.Pinching mechanism 430 includes a pivot 439 and a block 437 pivotallyconnected to pivot 439. The block 437 includes a front side 437 a.

FIG. 4B illustrates a bottom, rear, right side perspective view of theexample carabiner 400 in accordance with the third embodiment. Thecarabiner 400 includes a crotch 426, a protrusion 429, a pinchingmechanism 430, and a rope 440. Pinching mechanism 430 further includespivot 439 and block 437 pivotally connected to pivot 439. The block 437further includes rear side 437 b. Pinching mechanism 430 also includes astem 433 connected between both front side 437 a and rear side 437 b.The surface of stem 433 is a groove or concave perimeter surfaceconfigured to receive and guide rope 440. Accordingly, a pivotable block437 is defined by stem 433 connected between both front side 437 a andrear side 437 b. The pivotable block 437 pivots about pivot 439.Additionally, in other embodiments of the invention, pinching mechanism430 can further include a spring that biases pivotable block 437 towardan unpinched position, such that the bias can be overcome when the rope440 is weighted by a climber to engage pivotable block 437 into apinched position.

Moreover, between crotch 426 and stem 433 of pinching mechanism 430, achannel is formed having a first channel opening 436 a and a secondchannel opening 436 b, each of which are configured to receive rope 440.Furthermore, FIG. 4B shows rope 440 includes a first portion 441 thatenters first channel opening 436 a and a second portion 443 that enterssecond channel opening 436 b. Thus, rope 440 is configured to enterfirst channel opening 436 a, wrap around stem 433 through the channelformed between an interior surface of crotch 426 and stem 433, and thenexit second channel opening 436 b.

FIG. 4C illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner400 with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched position in accordancewith the third embodiment. The carabiner 400 includes a gate pivotallyconnected to a frame by a gate pivot rod 414. The gate of carabiner 400is configured to be movable between a closed position 450 a and an openposition 450 b. The carabiner 400 further includes a pinching mechanism430 having a pivotable block configured to be movable to an unpinchedposition 460 a. In the unpinched position 460 a, the rotatable cam ofpinching mechanism 430 is movable away from protrusion 429, therebyunpinching rope 440 between the pivotable block and protrusion 429, andallowing rope 440 to move freely around the pivotable block.

FIG. 4D illustrates a front elevational view of the example carabiner400 with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position in accordance withthe third embodiment. The carabiner 400 includes a gate pivotallyconnected to a frame by a gate pivot rod 414. The gate of carabiner 400is configured to be movable between a closed position 450 a and an openposition 450 b. The carabiner 400 further includes a pinching mechanism430 having a pivotable block configured to be movable to a pinchedposition 460 b. In the pinched position 460 b, the pivotable block ofpinching mechanism 430 is movable toward protrusion 429, therebypinching rope 440 between the pivotable block and protrusion 429, andpreventing rope 440 from moving freely around the pivotable block.However, in one or more embodiments of the invention, the pinchingmechanism 430 pinches the rope 440 against a surface of the frame ofcarabiner 400 rather than against a protrusion 429. Thus, it should beappreciated that protrusion 429 is optional to the functionality ofpinching mechanism 430.

FIG. 4E illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner 400 with a pinching mechanism in an unpinched positionin accordance with the third embodiment. The carabiner 400 includes aframe surface 425. Carabiner 400 further includes protrusion 429proximate frame surface 425. Frame surface 425 and stem 433 of thepivotable block of the pinching mechanism form channel 436. Accordingly,rope 440 passes through channel 436 with a first portion 441 of rope 440entering channel 436 at first channel opening 436 a, the rope 440further traveling through the channel 436 around stem 433 and pastprotrusion 429 until a second portion 443 of rope 440 exits channel 436at second channel opening 436 b. As FIG. 4E illustrates, rope 440 isunpinched by the pinching mechanism since there is space between theportion of the rope 440 proximate the protrusion 429 and the stem 433.Moreover, when a force is applied to rope 440 that forces the stem 433such that it pivots toward the unpinched position, then rope 440 becomesunpinched as between protrusion 429 and stem 433.

FIG. 4F illustrates a front elevational cross-sectional view of theexample carabiner 400 with a pinching mechanism in a pinched position inaccordance with the third embodiment. The carabiner 400 includes framesurface 425. Carabiner 400 further includes protrusion 429 proximateframe surface 425. Frame surface 425 and stem 433 of the rotatable camof the pinching mechanism form channel 436. Accordingly, rope 440 passesthrough channel 436 with a first portion 441 of rope 440 enteringchannel 436 at first channel opening 436 a, the rope 440 furthertraveling through the channel 436 around stem 433 and past protrusion429 until a second portion 443 of rope 440 exits channel 436 at secondchannel opening 436 b. As FIG. 4F illustrates, rope 440 is pinched bythe pinching mechanism as protrusion 429 and stem 433 compress rope 440when stem 433 pivots toward the pinched position. Moreover, when a forceis applied to rope 440 that forces the stem 433 such that it rotatestoward the pinched position, then rope 440 becomes pinched betweenprotrusion 429 and stem 433.

Turning to FIG. 5, a sample use of the example carabiner 100 of FIG. 1is depicted in accordance with the first embodiment. In particular, FIG.5 illustrates a sample use 500 by a climber 510 of the carabiner 520 inaccordance with the first embodiment. Carabiner 520 includes a pinchingmechanism 530 and a rope with a first portion 540 and a second portion550. First portion 540 of the rope is attached to the climbing harnessof climber 510. Second end 550 of the rope is held in the right hand ofclimber 510. Moreover, the carabiner 520 can be used as an anchor byclimber 510. As a first step, the climber proceeds with attaching firstportion 540 of the rope to the climbing harness of climber 510. Forexample, assuming first portion 540 of rope includes a loop, a girthhitch can be used to attach first portion 540 to one or more of thebelay loop, tie-in loops, or waistbelt of the climbing harness ofclimber 510. As a second step, the climber 510 proceeds with adjustingthe length of first portion 540 of the rope as far as is needed to reachan anchor point in a support surface, such as a permanent bold in a rockwall. As a third step, the climber 510 proceeds with opening the gate ofcarabiner 520 to connect to the anchor point. As a fourth step, oncecarabiner 520 is connected to the anchor point, the climber 510 proceedswith closing the gate of carabiner 520 and locking any locking sleeve ofthe gate of the carabiner 520, if any. As a fifth step, once thecarabiner 520 is locked on the anchor point, the climber 510 proceedswith pulling second portion 550 of the rope to achieve a desired lengthof first portion 540 of the rope. As a sixth step, the climber 510proceeds with weighting the carabiner 520 on first portion 540 of therope such that the pinching mechanism 530 is engaged to pinch the rope.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its spirit or essential characteristics. The describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrativeand not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicatedby the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope.

What is claimed:
 1. A carabiner comprising: a frame comprising a framesurface, the frame surface comprising a protrusion; a gate pivotallyconnected to the frame, the gate movable between a closed position andan open position; and a pinching mechanism integrated into the frameforming a channel between the frame and the pinching mechanism, thepinching mechanism movable between a pinched position and an unpinchedposition, the pinching mechanism comprising a stem movable toward theframe surface to pinch toward the frame surface when in the pinchedposition and movable away from the frame surface to unpinch away fromthe frame surface when in the unpinched position, wherein the framesurface is positioned proximate the channel.
 2. The carabiner of claim1, wherein the frame further comprises: a nose that mates with the gatein the closed position; a basket adjacent to the nose, the basketsubstantially perpendicular to the gate in the closed position; a spineadjacent to the basket, the spine opposite the gate in the closedposition; a crotch adjacent to the spine, the crotch opposite thebasket; and a gate pivot head that protrudes from the crotch topivotally connect to the gate using a gate pivot rod.
 3. The carabinerof claim 1, wherein the gate is capable of locking when the gate is inthe closed position.
 4. The carabiner of claim 1, wherein the pinchingmechanism comprises one of: a slidable pin; a rotatable cam; or apivotable block.
 5. The carabiner of claim 1, wherein the pinchingmechanism is integrated into the frame at a crotch of the frame.
 6. Thecarabiner of claim 1, further comprising: a rope passing through thechannel, the rope configured to be pinched between the frame and thepinching mechanism when in the pinched position and unpinched betweenthe frame and the pinching mechanism when in the unpinched position, therope further comprising: a first portion having a first end thatprevents the first end from traveling completely through the channel byway of a first channel opening; and a second portion having a second endthat prevents the second end from traveling completely through thechannel by way of a second channel opening.
 7. The carabiner of claim 1:wherein the pinching mechanism moves toward the pinched position whenforce is applied to the pinching mechanism in a direction that forcesthe pinching mechanism toward the frame surface; and wherein thepinching mechanism moves toward the unpinched position when force isapplied to the pinching mechanism in a direction that forces thepinching mechanism away from the frame surface.
 8. A carabinercomprising: a frame comprising a crotch, the crotch comprising: a frontside; a rear side opposite the front side; a front groove on the frontside; and a rear groove on the rear side; a gate pivotally connected tothe frame, the gate movable between a closed position and an openposition; and a pinching mechanism integrated into the frame, thepinching mechanism movable between a pinched position and an unpinchedposition, the pinching mechanism comprising a pin slidably mountedwithin the frame, the pin comprising: a front button slidably mountedwithin the front groove; a rear button slidably mounted within the reargroove; and a stem connected to the front button and the rear button;and wherein the crotch and the stem form a channel between the frame andthe pinching mechanism.
 9. The carabiner of claim 8, wherein the channelfurther comprises: a first channel opening configured to receive a firstportion of a rope; and a second channel opening configured to receive asecond portion of the rope.
 10. The carabiner of claim 8, wherein thecrotch further comprises a protrusion positioned proximate the channel.11. The carabiner of claim 8: wherein the pin moves toward the pinchedposition when force is applied to the pin in a direction that forces thepin toward a frame surface positioned proximate the channel; and whereinthe pin moves toward the unpinched position when force is applied to thepin in a direction that forces the pin away from the frame surfacepositioned proximate the channel.
 12. A carabiner comprising: a framecomprising a crotch, the crotch comprising: a front side; a rear sideopposite the front side; a front groove on the front side; and a reargroove on the rear side; a gate pivotally connected to the frame, thegate movable between a closed position and an open position; and apinching mechanism integrated into the frame, the pinching mechanismmovable between a pinched position and an unpinched position, thepinching mechanism comprising: a shaft; and a cam rotationally connectedto the shaft, the cam comprising: a front guide rod slidably mountedwithin the front groove; a rear guide rod slidably mounted within therear groove; and a stem connected to the front guide rod and the rearguide rod; and wherein the crotch and the stem form a channel betweenthe frame and the pinching mechanism.
 13. The carabiner of claim 12,wherein the channel further comprises: a first channel openingconfigured to receive a first portion of a rope; and a second channelopening configured to receive a second portion of the rope.
 14. Thecarabiner of claim 12, wherein the crotch further comprises a protrusionpositioned proximate the channel.
 15. The carabiner of claim 12, whereinthe pinching mechanism further comprises a spring that biases the camtoward the unpinched position.
 16. The carabiner of claim 12: whereinthe cam moves toward the pinched position when force is applied to thecam in a direction that forces the cam toward a frame surface positionedproximate the channel; and wherein the cam moves toward the unpinchedposition when force is applied to the cam in a direction that forces thecam away from the frame surface positioned proximate the channel.